This homemade apple pie ice cream is a fun treat that mixes sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and creamy ice cream. It’s like summer and fall had a delicious baby!
Making it is a breeze: just mix ingredients and let them freeze. I can’t resist sneaking a scoop before dinner—shhh! Perfect for a warm day or a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For the best flavor, go for tart apples like Granny Smith. If you can’t find them, any firm apples will do, like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. They’ll add a nice zing to the ice cream.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred here, as it lets you control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to use coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a similar effect!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream creates a rich texture, you can substitute half-and-half if you want a lighter version, but it will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, look for coconut cream.
Brown Sugar: This sweetener adds depth. For a different flavor, you can use maple syrup or coconut sugar as a substitute, keeping in mind that equal measurements may alter sweetness slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Apples for Ice Cream?
Cooking apples adds a wonderful soft texture and enhances their sweetness. Follow these simple steps:
- Start with a medium heat to melt the butter. This helps the apples cook without burning.
- Add the diced apples with sugar and spices and stir occasionally. You want them to get soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Let them cool before mixing with the ice cream base to prevent it from melting.
Taking your time here will ensure those flavors meld beautifully, making every scoop delightful!
Easy Homemade Apple Pie Ice Cream Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large apples (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers or pie crust pieces for added texture
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time to prepare the apples and mix the ingredients. Then, you’ll need at least 4 hours for the ice cream to freeze and set in the freezer. Total time: about 4 hours and 15 minutes, but the waiting is definitely worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apples:
Begin by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into small cubes. This will make them easier to cook and mix into the ice cream.
2. Cook the Apples:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook while stirring occasionally until the apples are soft and caramelized, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool.
3. Mix the Base:
While the apples are cooling, take a mixing bowl and whisk together the milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is fully dissolved and there are no lumps. This sweet, creamy base is essential for our ice cream!
4. Add the Heavy Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is well combined. This will help the ice cream be super creamy when frozen.
5. Churn the Ice Cream:
Transfer the mixture into your ice cream maker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for churning, which typically takes about 20-25 minutes. You’re looking for a thick and creamy consistency!
6. Fold in the Apples:
Once the ice cream is nearly done churning, gently fold in the cooled, cooked apples and any optional pie crust or crushed graham crackers. This adds texture and that delicious apple pie flavor throughout the ice cream.
7. Freeze the Ice Cream:
Transfer your ice cream to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to cover it well to prevent ice crystals. Let it freeze for at least 4 hours or until firm. Patience is key here!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to indulge, scoop the ice cream into bowls or cones. Enjoy the sweet, creamy apple pie ice cream with that delightful cinnamon-spiced apple goodness throughout!
This recipe captures the joy of apple pie in every creamy scoop—perfect for warm days or cozy evenings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples. Just make sure they are firm to hold up during cooking!
How Can I Make This Ice Cream Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. Just ensure that your dairy-free milk has a creamy texture for the best results!
Can I Make This Ice Cream Without an Ice Cream Maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze it. Stir every 30 minutes for the first 2-3 hours to break up any ice crystals until it reaches a creamy consistency.
How Should I Store Leftover Ice Cream?
Store any leftover ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. To best preserve its texture, ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent freezer burn.
